The storm had sustained winds near 60 mph and was expected to gain strength before passing near or just east of the island by early Saturday morning, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

The darkening skies did not dampen the spirits of tourists like Bill and Margaret Breen, from Boston, who carried rain jackets as they strolled through Hamilton.

"We're flying home tomorrow afternoon, so the only issue could be the storm affecting the flight. But there would be a lot worse things than to stay another day," said Bill Breen, 45.

Friday afternoon, Shary's core was about 155 miles south-southwest of Bermuda, according to the hurricane center. It was moving north-northeast at 12 mph.

Derrick Binns, the permanent secretary of the Home Affairs Ministry, called on islanders to tie up their boats and secure any outdoor furniture that could blow away in the wind. He also urged cyclists and motorists to be careful on the roads.

Shary is the 19th named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season.

In late September, Hurricane Igor knocked out power to half of Bermuda when it passed nearby as a Category 1 hurricane. It did not cause any major damage or injuries, however.